RARE YUE CELADON CHICKEN-HEAD EWER, JIN-SOUTHERN DYNASTY
RARE YUE CELADON CHICKEN-HEAD EWER, JIN-SOUTHERN DYNASTY
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Chicken-head celadon vessels are among the most distinctive and emblematic ceramic forms produced during the dynamic period spanning from the Han dynasty (206 BC–AD 220) through the Tang dynasty (618–907). Their production began during the Jin dynasty (265–420), primarily at the southern Yue kilns in present-day Zhejiang province. The form subsequently spread to other southern kilns and was later adopted by northern celadon workshops.
The widespread use of such vessels—including their presence in imperial burial contexts—reflects the auspicious symbolism associated with the chicken motif. In early East Asian belief, chickens were thought to possess the power to ward off evil spirits, cure illness, and bring beneficial fortune.
The mouth of the present vessel shows evidence of repair. Clear signs of excavation-related surface accretions are visible on four sides of the body. While many comparable examples are fitted with loop handles, this piece instead features a modeled tail-form element, representing a notable variation within the type.
Period : Jin-Southern Dynasty (266 - 589 AD)
Type : Ewer
Medium : Yue celadon(Stoneware)
Dimension : 17cm(Height) x 11cm(Mouth Diameter)
Provenance : The piece was acquired in Hong Kong in the late 1990s
Condition : Good (Mouth was repaired and chip on mouth)
Reference :
1) Ashmolean Museum - Accession no.EA1956.286
(Type : Closely related)
http://jameelcentre.ashmolean.org/collection/921/object/11771
2) Sotheby's Hongkong 27 November 2020 - CHINA / 5000 YEARS 博古五千 - Lot 384
(Price Range : 260,000HKD-360,000HKD / Type : Closely related)
https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2020/china-5000-years/a-rare-yue-celadon-chicken-head-ewer-western-jin
* Yue Celadon
Yue celadon, also known as Yue ware, is a type of Chinese pottery with a celadon glaze, originating from the eastern Han dynasty (25-220 AD) in the Zhejiang province. The name 'Yue' comes from the Yue kilns which were among the earliest to develop the celadon technique. Yue ware is known for its jade-like glaze, which can range in color from bluish-green to olive green.
Yue celadon was highly regarded during its time and was the first Chinese ware to be imported in large quantities to the Middle East and Africa, significantly influencing the development of ceramics in those regions. The production of Yue ware continued to evolve, and during the Tang dynasty (618-907 AD), it became more refined with more complex shapes and decorations. By the time of the Song dynasty (960-1279 AD), it had greatly influenced other kiln traditions, leading to the development of the classic longquan celadon, which became one of China’s most famous ceramic products.
Yue celadon traditionally embodies elements of auspiciousness and good fortune in Chinese culture. The jade-like celadon glaze is often associated with longevity and health. Various motifs and shapes inscribed on the pottery frequently symbolize luck and prosperity. For example, lotus patterns may represent purity and immortality, while animal figures like the lion symbolizes power, courage, and strength. Lions are considered protectors that ward off evil spirits and bring forth good luck. Furthermore, Yue celadon wares were commonly used as tomb offerings in ancient China, believed to bring fortune and well-being to the deceased in the afterlife.
